For
many customers-- whether they are buying fuel, a new car or a
computer -- customer service is a key factor in the
selection of a marketer and in maintaining customer
loyalty. On-Farm Fuel Storage Partnership Tip Sheet #4 Issues & Opportunities for Marketers |
|
For
many customers-- whether they are buying fuel, a new car or a
computer -- customer service is a key factor in the
selection of a marketer and in maintaining customer
loyalty.
Offering
to go the extra mile to help customers comply with regulations,
to protect their water quality, to reduce fire risks, and to
avoid property liabilities is the difference between just
delivering diesel fuel and providing a full-service menu for
customers.
When
basic products and equipment do not distinguish one marketer from
another, service is the key to the customer's attention.
Many
rural farm and non-farm fuel storage systems are not in full
compliance with existing regulations.
Many
non-compliant storage systems can be upgraded with such
things as replacement hoses, automatic shut-off nozzles, and vent
whistles -- which are modestly priced.
Some
tank systems require complete replacement.
Aboveground
fuel storage systems with less than a 40-foot setback, or greater
than 1,100 gallon capacity, will require secondary containment,
which marketers may choose to sell.
Some
farmers will purchase secondary containment, even when it is
optional.
Spill
protection products, such as fuel absorbent pads or socks, can be
provided at a low cost.
Product
and service literature provide the written forum where customers
can see the full range of products and services, including the
extras that support compliant fuel storage systems.
Use
drivers' personal contacts with customers as opportunities to
promote services and equipment to upgrade systems.
Offer
incentives to encourage the adoption of products and services
that achieve compliance and better protection of water quality
and property integrity.
Partnerships
with other stakeholders -- such as lenders, insurance companies,
the general public, educational institutions, university
extension programs and agents, and public health programs -- can
create a broader base of support and information for farm and
non-farm rural customer.
Use workshops, on-farm demonstrations, state and county fairs,
marketers' open house days, trade shows, Farm Progress Days and
other opportunities to get the word out.
| |Next Tip Sheet | | Previous Tip Sheet | | Return to Tip Sheet| |
Address for this site: http://www.wisc.edu/farmasyst/private/petro/tip4.html
Created by: Richard Castelnuovo, rcasteln@students.wisc.edu
Last modified: February 10, 1997